Wellsville earns fourth straight victory

Wellsville  Wellsville High football coach Bill Oshel had heard all about the huge offensive line of Arma Northeast.

He knew of its strong running back combination of James Walker and Matt Kuhel. He was well aware that a good game from the Vikings would end Wellsville's miracle run through the Class 3A state playoffs.

Apparently, his team didn't seem the least bit concerned.

The Eagles, currently smoking through postseason opponents, shut down the bigger Vikings' offense, coming away with a 21-0 victory Tuesday in the first round of the playoffs.

"They did have some size up front," Oshel said. "Their backs are very good, and we were able to shut them down tonight."

Combined, Walker and Kuehl managed 161 yards rushing on 34 carries. It was the Vikings' only option, though. The pass defense of Wellsville was fabulous, and Arma Northeast quarterback Kyle Montee was just 1-of-7 passing for 15 yards. Three of his seven attempts were intercepted, two by Wellsville junior Gary Van Horn.

"I was just in the right spot," Van Horn said of his two picks. "I'm happy for my team. We've worked really hard."

Van Horn also provided the first touchdown for the Eagles, when he snagged a 28-yard reception four minutes into the game. He finished with two catches for 69 yards.

"He's coming around," Oshel said. "It's nice to get the ball to him."

Wellsville (5-5) pulled away with two rushing scores from Dustin Gardner. The senior, who ran for 196 yards last week, managed 80 yards on 23 carries on Tuesday.

Oshel said his supporting cast has been a lot healthier, making it easier for everybody.

"When they all start feeling healthy, they start feeling positive," Oshel said. "We're as healthy as we've been all year."

And at just the right time. The Eagles are one of 16 Class 3A teams still alive in the chase for the state crown. They'll look to extend their winning streak to five games on Saturday when they'll face Cherryvale, who defeated Baxter Springs, 36-34, on Tuesday.